by Skip Cohen

Just for a second, think back to how the Internet has changed the way we share photographs. Then add in the only good thing about the pandemic - time to capture, share and view images. Suddenly the world is at your fingertips, literally.

Charles and Jennifer Maring aren't new to SCU. Since SCU started, we've been sharing their work in guest posts, images, podcasts, and videos. This past year they made a significant change in their lives and left the Northeast and are now in Savannah enjoying a considerable lifestyle change. They represent one of the most diverse couples in imaging. The tagline on Charles' FB page says it all:

Know about LUMIX PRO Services? The team at Panasonic never slows down in their support of photographers and filmmakers. Just click on the link below for more information.

by Skip Cohen

We may not be getting together at conventions, but that doesn't mean there aren't some great opportunities to still get inside another artist's head and understand how they captured an image, or what makes it special. 

Jordan Bunch is a LUMIX Ambassador and no stranger to "Mirrorless Monday" posts. He's also a wedding photographer and sent me the image above. Along with the photograph he wrote:

This one's different from ones I normally share with you but I got a compliment on it from one of the 3 WPPI Grand Masters so I figured it was worth sharing. Haha 

I shot it with the new Lumix 85mm f1.8 which is freaking amazing by the way. This is the first time I got a chance to use this lens and I fell in love with it so quickly. I ended up shooting 90% of the wedding day with it.

​The 85mm is the perfect balance of beautiful compression and usability on a wedding day - Not too long, not too wide. It allows for incredible depth and separation of foreground and background while still getting a sense of the environment of the space you’re in.

This moment was during a toast being given by the maid of honor. I had 2 lights on 12’ stands. One light across the room about 45 degrees to my right from subject and the other you can see pouring in, to the couples left. When I noticed the sun was still warming up the sky, after it set a bit, I made my way over towards this area.I slowed my shutter speed down to pick up the warmth in the sky.

Then I used a technique I've often called “zero tilt” when I get my camera on the same level as my subject's face so the lens is parallel to the ground. I wanted it to be at a strong enough angle from my light, with the sunset in the background and have a feel for the environment, so shooting through this table in front seemed like the perfect perspective. Then I just waited until the maid of honor made the couple laugh and snapped this little gem.

Note: The exposure triad for Jordan's image above was f1.8 @ 1/80 ISO 1600

After I posted this, and knowing how sensitive we all are, Jordan sent me an IM about why people were without masks...This was during the meal and people actually were doing a good job of being masked and distancing for the wedding. The bride and groom are both MDs so they made sure everyone was respectful of those guidelines...People only had their masks off because they were eating at this time.
​
Click on the thumbnails below to learn more about two of Jordan's favorite creative tools. Visit his website to see more of his work, and then get to know the rest of the Ambassador team. They're a pretty amazing crew, and regularly sharing great content on their own blogs and websites.

by Skip Cohen
 
​Today's "Mirrorless Monday" isn't perfect because it's captured with mirrorless technology, but it was created while maintaining physical distancing and safety. LUMIX Ambassador, Todd White, shot these images as part of a commercial assignment for a client, 600 Degrees Pizzeria, and it's a great reminder for many of you to use this downtime to fine-tune your still life skillset.

Todd's gearbox included the LUMIX S5 with the LUMIX S 20-60mm lens. When I called Todd for permission to share these images, I love what he said about the shoot:

"I love keeping it simple! I shot this with natural window light, camera left with $3.00 of foam core from Target, bounced on camera right, just to give me a little fill. And I used the table in the restaurant while standing on the bench seat."

Todd's exposure triad: f4.5 @ 1/160 - ISO 800 at 36mm 

Besides the fun of keeping in touch with what Todd's working on, today's post is about not slowing down. The pandemic challenges have impacted all of us, but as I've written numerous times this past year, hunkering down is about your health, not about your creativity, skillset, or business!

And to help you get to know Todd White a little better, along with the LUMIX camera S series line, check out the short video below. Make sure you follow Todd on Instagram; he's always sharing great images. Visit his website too. 

And, you'll find more information about Todd with the other LUMIX Ambassadors on the team page on Panasonic's website. This group is one of the most diverse and creative teams in photo. All the ambassadors regularly share outstanding images and information about LUMIX.

LUMIX artists all over the world are sharing their images on the LUMIX Photographers Facebook page. There's new content being shared by over 11,000 members regularly!

by Skip Cohen

​I'm not sure there's anything my good buddy Shiv Verma hasn't photographed, but the beauty of the still-life image above is a testimonial to his diversity, skill set, and love for the craft. He recently shared the photo on his Facebook page, but there's more to the backstory.

"I was supposed to do the shoot at the Boston Library, but because of the pandemic, it had to be done at home."

Shiv's gear included a LUMIX S5, LUMIX S 20-60 f/3.5-5.6 lens, and a Platypod Max. The Max was set up with two goosenecks and LitraTorch 2.0 lights. The exposure triad was f7.1 @ 1/15 ISO 400. 

Click on Shiv's image above to see more of his work, and put his workshop schedule on your radar. Because of the pandemic the schedule is temporarily on hold, but he's an outstanding educator. As soon as things are back to a level of normalcy, you'll see him back to teaching.

You'll find more information about Shiv with the other LUMIX Ambassadors on the team page on Panasonic's website. This group is one of the most diverse and creative teams in photo. All the ambassadors regularly share outstanding images and information about LUMIX.

And don't miss out on great images being shared by LUMIX artists all over the world on the LUMIX Photographers Facebook page. There's new content being shared by over 11,000 members regularly!

Looking for the best information about the LUMIX S5? Just click on the banner below!

Panasonic LUMIX S5, 4K Mirrorless Full-Frame L-Mount Camera,
​LUMIX S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6 Lens ​

by Skip Cohen

LUMIX Ambassador Paul Mango is in the spotlight for this "Mirrorless Monday" post, and he's using one of my favorite cameras, the GX85. It's pocket-size but with a BIG "heart" and a long list of features/benefits. Paul shared these images on Facebook over the weekend, but it's not just the photographs I appreciated.

We're all still dealing with the pandemic and the challenges of physical distancing and safety. I love that through the entire pandemic; he hasn't slowed down on capturing images. Just something as simple as a photowalk with a purpose keeps him active in his passion for the craft, and allows him to stay in touch with other artists.

With these images, he wrote: Great Jersey City Street art photo walk today with a NJ-based photography group. Today I carried the GX85 and switched between the 12-60mm Lumix and a 7.5mm Rokinon fisheye as I love the barrel effect it creates with street art.

The GX85 comes with a kit lens that I've enjoyed as well - perfect for street photography - the 12-32mm lens. Click on the thumbnails below for more information about the GX85 and one of Paul's favorite lenses, the 12-60mm.

​You'll find more information about Paul with the rest of the LUMIX Ambassadors on the team page on Panasonic's website. This group is one of the most diverse and creative teams in photo.  All the ambassadors should be on your radar.  And, follow Paul on both his Facebook page and on Instagram.

And don't miss out on great images being shared from LUMIX artists all over the world on the LUMIX Photographers Facebook page. There's new content being shared by over 11,000 members regularly!

by Skip Cohen
 
It's a new year, and more and more, I've come to realize the control we all share in pushing things back to a level of normalcy. The need to capture memories and the potential demand by consumers for the "magic," only a professional photographer can provide hasn't changed. Sure, it's been buried under a lot of stress, frustration, and fear through the pandemic, but it's still out there.

Just recently, Charles and Jennifer Maring shared this stunning family portrait on their Facebook page. While it was taken last fall, it was done during one of the pandemic's most restrictive phases. But it was still captured and created while maintaining physical distancing and exercising the necessary health precautions.

It might be too cold today in various parts of the country for a family portrait like this now, but that doesn't limit your ability as a portrait artist. Your creativity gives you the potential to create something just as stunning - the challenge is that it's up to you to plant the seeds of ideas with your target audience. This is where your blog, a personal letter to your clients, or a direct mail piece can help.

It's still going to be a while before the vaccine really makes a difference, but you don't have to wait! Hunkering down is about your health - NOT about your business.

Charles and Jennifer captured this image with the LUMIX S1R, LUMIX 70-200mm f/4 lens and a Profoto B10 (off camera for fill light). The exposure triad was: 1/80 @ f/8 ISO 100 in Manual.

​Panasonic technology is "changing photography," and giving artists some of the most creative tools in the history of imaging. Click on either thumbnail below for more information about two of the Maring's most favorite tools!

by Skip Cohen

As I was wandering through the LUMIX channel on YouTube, I caught this video from 2017 featuring Ben Grunow. I loved the video and put the post together, not realizing I shared it three years ago when it first came out.  

I was going to delete it but thought about how relevant his tips are RIGHT NOW. We're in the middle of a pandemic, and so many photographers, to still be out shooting, have stepped into the landscape world, even if it's just a sunset or skyline image near home. 
 
For me, the fun of a video like this is knowing Ben and having spent a little time with him at past LUMIX meetings. Throw in some great how-to advice, and it gives the film that much more value. 

Ben is a leader in landscape photography and shares one great tip after another. I especially loved the touch screen demo, as well as the time-lapse component that starts about fifty seconds into the film.

​The images I pulled for today's post are screenshots, and even though they're pretty good, imagine how beautiful the originals must be.

Ben's shooting with a GH5, and the film was also captured on a GH5.  His technique is outstanding and at a time when landscape photography is one of the safest segments of imaging during the pandemic, there's a lot of great information being shared.

Ben needs to be on your radar, along with Griffin Hammond, who shot the film. Click on any image above to visit Ben's website. And Griffin Hammond is just a click away.

If you haven't checked out the LUMIX line, now is the time. Panasonic has repeatedly set the standard for quality and technology, especially with the new Full-Frame S Series! Just click on the banner below.

by Skip Cohen

​As my day got started today, I was determined to write about anything but the election results, which will go on for the next few days. So, I decided to finish a post I started a month ago that was sitting in my draft folder.

While I hate writing about anything to do with the pandemic, at the same time, it's the new norm we all deal with. Like everyone, I have good days and bad. I miss time with friends and the freedom to simply go wherever we want, whenever we want.

But there is something that's helping Sheila and me through all the challenges: making a conscious effort to do something fun, even if it's only for a short break.

I've written before about the two new members of the family, Lucy, and Belle. They've been with us for a year. Their crate's now gone, and they have almost full run of the house. They've been instrumental in keeping us focused on staying optimistic. And while the first ninety days were horrible, they're now fully into life with "Mom" and "Dad."

Combining two passions, the pups, and photography, I decided to have a little fun in the water. Lucy's a Mini-Goldendoodle, and loving the water is in her gene pool. Belle's a Havanese and can swim, but she's the princess and prefers to be a spectator.

I set up my LUMIX G9 on a Platypod Max and started shooting video. These were still frames from the video. The video itself was pretty dull and pointed out my need to develop better editing and cinematographer skills. (Click on any of the thumbnails below for more info on my gear setup.)

​But here's the fun thing about doing a mini-project like this - it captured a moment I cherish. It's even more relevant as a reminder of the importance imaging plays in our lives, even when it's DIY. Lucy's enthusiasm and trust with "Dad" and Belle's contentment to be a bystander pretty much says it all about their love for the water. Lucy is in, the minute I say "Jump," while Belle races up and down the sides of the pool following Lucy, but won't go into the water.  

Here's part of my point today: One of the most respected physicians in Sarasota, at a Zoom meeting I was on, the other day, gave us a little pandemic insight, which I'm paraphrasing.

It's not going away, and the best prediction of a vaccine is now in the Spring. There's a spike predicted in new cases in Florida as the snowbirds come back and bring more than just their suntan lotion. And we were all advised to get our flu shots and follow the rules of wearing a mask and physical distancing.

There's no light switch about to be flipped to end the nightmare of the pandemic, but there is a switch you can turn on and off whenever you need a break from adjusting to the new norm: DO SOMETHING FUN!

Walk away from the business you're working so hard to maintain and do something that makes you smile. It might be a phone call to a friend you miss, taking a walk, looking through old photographs, or taking your camera gear and shooting just for you. If you take the time, you'll find the list is endless, even with the appropriate restrictions.

There are two great Zig Ziglar quotes that fit right now:

If you want to beat the pandemic, don't give up on your dreams. Make time for things you love doing - things that make you smile. Use those core members of your network who you know you best for support, and keep your attitude at high altitude!

​Happy Wednesday!

by Skip Cohen

"Mind Your Own Business" is all about introducing you to the diversity of some of the most respected artists and educators in professional imaging. Since starting the series over six years ago, each guest has shared insight into their journey with continuous support to help photographers raise the bar on their skill set and develop a stronger brand and successful business.

My good pal Shiv Verma is in the MYOB spotlight and joined Chamira Young and me for a conversation about his career, projects for downtime, staying optimistic, and the future of imaging. Shiv's an artist, educator, writer, and a good friend to so many photographers in the industry.

Although we've known each other for many years, we started to get quality time together thanks to his role as a LUMIX Ambassador. (Note: All of Shiv's images we pulled for this post from were all captured with LUMIX cameras.) Later, I got to know him even better though Platypod. He's been a vital contributor to so many different ideas and new products over the years, including the upcoming Platyball.

Two of my favorite conventions before the pandemic were IUSA and WPPI. Working with Shiv in the booth, and then getting time together over dinner at the end of each day gave us a chance to cover a lot of ground with so many different topics and interests.

Check out more of Shiv's work with a visit to his Instagram page, his website, and past SCU blog posts.

Part of the fun of following Shiv is the diversity of his work - from critters and night skies to a model at a conference and fine art, you'll never be disappointed in what he's sharing or where he's traveling!

As always - thanks go to the Photofocus Team for their support of this podcast. Check out their content; whether it's new product info, "how-to" posts, or educational information to help you become a better artist, they never slow down in the quality of what they share.

by Skip Cohen

With so much content available online, while it's easy to keep up with what other artists are doing, it's challenging to find the very best quality content. Well, check out "LUMIX Stories." It's Panasonic's LUMIX Ambassador's page, and it's loaded with great stories and images from artists all over the world.

There are stories from 36 different artists currently on the site, with each thumbnail taking you to a different topic or destination.

Shooting with a G9 and loving it as I do, I clicked on my good friend Suzette Allen's story and loved what I found. Click on the banner below and join Suzette on a journey of great images and tips to help you build an even stronger skill set.

For more information on the remarkable G9 and all its features, click on the thumbnail to the right. 

​Check out Suzette Allen's website, her blogs and YouTube channel. There are 425 videos on her channel with an incredible range of topics. She's always sharing outstanding content, and ways to expand your skill set.

Each image includes the camera used along with the lens and exposure triad. There's so much good content featured in this series.

by Skip Cohen

One of the all-time top forbidden topics in most blogs is politics. In fact, everyone has been caught in conversations where we wish politics hadn't come up.

Well, I'm taking a chance with this blog post, but I'm counting on you not to agree or disagree, but pay attention to the technique, style, storytelling ability, and quality of the trailer for this full-length film.

It's all been the work of LUMIX Ambassador, Jordan Bunch, and I couldn't be more proud to consider him a buddy. Here's the backstory Jordan sent me after I asked about his role in this:

I was hired by the campaign to come along and make social media videos for 2.5 weeks. I rode on the bus with Dr. Jorgensen and four others for that time making two videos/day for social media. Then I asked to come back on my own and use what I did as well as one more week of footage to make a documentary that I would fund myself, but that I would maintain full ownership of. So that's what this is.

Now, take it all one step further. Because of Covid-19, he shot it all solo, not something he'd normally do. But, as we've all dealt with the challenges of downtime during the last eight months, had Jordan's wedding business not been suffering, he might not have had the time to make the film! Plus, all the editing was done in ten days.

The film trailer is below, and again, please watch it for the creative value and technique, NOT whether you agree or disagree with the topics being shared. And if you decide you want to watch the full film click on the poster above.

The film was shot with the new full-frame S1H. Jordan had two of them along with plenty of S1 Pro-glass - the LUMIX PRO 24-70mm, 70-200mm and 24-105mm. Click on any of the thumbnails below to check out these three outstanding lenses.

You'll find more information about Jordan Bunch with the rest of the LUMIX Ambassadors on the team page on Panasonic's website. This group is one of the most diverse and creative teams in photo.  All the ambassadors should be on your radar. Plus, see more of Jordan's images in on his website at Ladybird Studios. 

And don't miss out on great images being shared from LUMIX artists all over the world on the LUMIX Photographers Facebook page. There's new content being shared by close to 11,000 members regularly!

by Skip Cohen

I first met Jennifer and Charles Maring back in my early WPPI days, so we've been friends for close to twenty years. I've always admired how they work to exceed client expectations and never compromise on the quality of an image.

Jennifer's shooting with the LUMIX S1and LUMIX S 24-105 f/4 lens, plus a Profoto B10, but just as impressive as the gear and her results is the way she's working with the client. It's a senior portrait shoot, and you'll notice Jennifer's making it an experience, not just a sitting.

The short BTS video below is described as:

Chase your curiosities, because when you do that, curiosity turns to interest, interest turns into passion, and suddenly you find yourself living your dream... That's where the real magic happens. This week we have been behind the camera creating summer portraits on the Lumix S1 with the Lumix 24-105 f/4 and a Profoto B10. Join photographer Jennifer Maring BTS as she creates senior portraits outdoors at a client / friends home. A well rounded session that includes natural light, a touch of fill when it counts, and over the top flash do bring more drama to the skies. Video filmed on the Lumix G100 Vlogging Camera.

Jennifer talks in the video about "when the magic happens," not just for the client, but the photographer. There's that unique point where your passion, the craft, and business align, and the beauty of your skill set comes shining through.

by Skip Cohen

When I share some of these videos from Panasonic, it's not just to demonstrate the incredible quality and features of the LUMIX line, but also to help you with ideas on how to tell your own story.  

This video, "A Drummer's Treasure," was posted on the LUMIX channel on YouTube a month ago. It's got a great script, beautiful music, and outstanding cinematography. It also demonstrated the capability of the full-frame S1H. But I also love how the story's told, as the narrator talks to the drum.

​This is storytelling at its best. It led me to think about the elements that might go into a photographer talking about a favorite image or, more generally, why they became an artist.

The text that goes along with the video tells the backstory:

Shot in Apple ProRes RAW using an early version of FW 2.1, “A Drummer’s Treasure” tells the story of musician restoring a vintage drum set. Portrayed as a visual journey narrating his passion towards the craft of bringing life back to the old and forgotten musical instrument.

Shot and Directed by cinematographer and filmmaker Sherif Mokbel, using the 24-70mm f/2.8 and the 50mm f/1.4 LUMIX S Pro lenses. The scenes were mostly captured in a dark setting to deliver a low key mood, exhibiting the S1H’s Dual ISO feature ability to handle low light situation without compromising the dynamic range.

​One other reason it hit home is a backstory of my own.

When I was a kid, my Dad and I collected musical instruments. We'd then refurbish them and give my grandmother the challenge of writing to the manufacturer for any original sale information. Dad and I would talk about each instrument and speculate who had originally owned it, played it, and the level of musician they were.

One of my favorites was the string valve cornet captured with a LUMIX G9 and the LUMIX G Vario 14-140mm f3.5-5.6 lens.  It was shot at f4.0 @ 1/4 sec, ISO 200 at 24mm.

We had instruments we carried out of antique stores with pieces in shopping bags over the years, but this gem even had the original case. So, when watching "A Drummer's Treasure," it took me right back to my days with my Dad.


If you haven't checked out Panasonic's lineup recently, it's time! Click on any of the thumbnails below for more information about S1H and the two lenses used in the video.

by Skip Cohen

In doing website reviews recently, I stumbled on a common occurrence with too many photographers: When they described their products/services, what they wrote could put a rock to sleep!

I'm convinced the problem goes back years with too many of them cutting English class on the day they talked about adjectives and creative writing!

For example, you're not selling a wedding album, but the first family heirloom of a new family. A wedding album isn't full of pages, but memories of intangible moments to be cherished for a lifetime. And for those of you who just rolled your eyes thinking, that's a little over the top - think about the products you buy and ads/commercials you've watched.

When it comes to pricing on various services, once again, most descriptions are like a can of soda that's been left open all night...they've got color, flavor but no fizz! Add words to describe your packages that tell people more than good, better, and best. 

​Years ago, I had a section in my marketing program about better descriptions. While it's a little dated in content, it still makes a point about wedding coverage. ​

​In the first section, I wanted to hit the assurance that the photographer worked quickly. One of the top "urban myths" with brides at the time was missing part of the wedding because they were tied up with the photographer. Every bride seemed to know someone it happened to, even though I'm betting it was rare.

​And the close of "deluxe first edition prints" were just the proofs. While most photographers today don't do proofs, there are a few who have kept them in the lineup. Again, it's about creating value, and today could just as easily be a "stunning custom-designed web page."

I get that you didn't sign up to be a writer, but if you don't make your own business sound exciting, nobody else will! Two suggestions to help: Use grammarly.com to raise the bar on the quality of what you write and to get more into improving your writing skills; and wandering through cyberspace, I found this article on the wordstream.com site. 
​
​You've got to put your heart into your business, as well as everything you write about. You can't create images that tug at people's heartstrings if your own heart isn't totally committed! And the same goes for describing everything you sell.

"Good writing is supposed to evoke sensation in the reader - not the fact that it is raining,
but the feeling of being rained upon."
E.L. Doctorow

by Skip Cohen

Before you read about Mark Toal's image above, click on it, and view it in the SCU lightbox. It really is a stunning image. 

What I love most about it is the different perspective he's added by shooting at a low angle using a LUMIX S5 mounted on a Platypod. I've shared several images over the last few months, all going back to a low angle and shooting in a way that's different from how most photographers might view the scene.

​Mark sent me these two images and wrote:​

I've attached a photo of the new Lumix S5 with the Lumix S 16-35mm lens on the Platypod and the final image from the S5. I shot it at a shutter speed of 3.2 seconds at f/22, ISO 100. 

I wanted the low angle so I could get the rocks and the Platypod worked perfectly and adjusted to the uneven surface perfectly. 

The image was taken at Trillium Lake with Mt Hood in the distance. ​

A big thanks to Mark for always sharing great content. He should be on your radar. Here's the link to his website and blog. 

And take the time to get to know the LUMIX Ambassador team too. This group is one of the most diverse and creative teams in photo, and all the ambassadors should be on your radar. Looking for more great content? Check out the LUMIX Photographers Facebook page - there are always great conversations and images shared by LUMIX artists from around the world.

Looking for information about the new full-frame LUMIX S5 - click on the thumbnail below. And watch the short video featuring LUMIX Ambassador Todd White out and about with the S5 as well. This is great stuff!

by Skip Cohen

​"Mirrorless Monday" went right on by as Labor Day, but who cares? It's Tuesday, and this short piece by my buddy and member of the LUMIX team, Mark Toal, is too much fun not to share on any day of the week. 

We're all dealing with downtime, and even though business is starting to open up a little, being a photographer and artist is still a challenge. Time lapse is a whole new adventure, and if you think about things you're doing around the house, family time, etc. there are so many opportunities to have fun capturing a variety of events.  

I'm also convinced that it's a great way to do your own video holiday card this year. Better yet, offer it as a product to your clients. It's not a new concept to any of us, but just like canvas prints - it's new to most of your clients, and something they'd get excited about!

Mark's description of how he captured refinishing his deck is below. There was one accessory to the capture that I couldn't be more proud to talk about, the link to the complete Platypod ecosystem.

Platypod products offer unlimited combinations of creative tools. They form an ecosystem of inspiration for photographers in macro, architecture, landscape, hiking, and traveling situations where tripods dare not go. 

A big thanks to Mark for sharing one of his time-lapse adventures. Here's the link to Mark's website and blog. He's always sharing great content.

And take the time to get to know the LUMIX Ambassador team too. This group is one of the most diverse and creative teams in photo, and all the ambassadors should be on your radar. Looking for more great content? Check out the LUMIX Photographers Facebook page - there are always great conversations and images shared by LUMIX artists from around the world.

By Mark Toal
​
​I've recently been refinishing the deck on my house and wanted to record the final step of staining the newly sanded wood.

I needed a way to set up the camera without a tripod since I didn't have space for one. I used a bungee cord to secure the Platypod to the deck railing, set my Lumix G9 with the 7-14mm lens to Time Lapse mode and shot a photo every 5 seconds until I was finished.

​The camera created the video internally. I then used WiFi to transfer the video to my phone and uploaded it to Facebook and my Vimeo.com account. 

Panasonic's tagline from the start of the LUMIX family has been "Changing Photography." Well, they've stayed true to that goal. I've been shooting with the G9 for over a year and love this camera. For more information, click on either of the thumbnails below.

by Skip Cohen

To start this post, click on the image above to view it enlarged in the SCU Lightbox. It was captured/created by my good buddy, Shiv Verma. He's no stranger to SCU, but of all the images we've shared of Shiv's, it's one of my favorites.

To start, I love black and white. We don't need to see color in every image, and I love it when Shiv adds something more to an image, just by keeping it simple. He shared this image on Facebook two days ago, and it deserves to be seen more! With the photo, he wrote:

Shiv Verma should be on your radar. He's always sharing great content with a lot of "how-to" information. You'll also find he's a regular contributor on the Platypod.com blog and their Instagram page. His website is only a click away.

​Shive is also a LUMIX Ambassador, one of the most creative groups in imaging. Follow Shiv and the other LUMIX Ambassadors for great content and a lot of terrific diversity. Each Ambassador has a unique skill set, but the common denominators are their love for the craft and respect for quality and creativity.

For information on some of Shiv's favorite gear, click on either thumbnail below. Panasonic never slows down on developing incredible tools to help artist expand their skill sets and creativity.

"Every lens ever made was created with a purpose in mind."
Charles Maring

by Skip Cohen

Every Monday, I share a new post with images from the world of mirrorless cameras, especially LUMIX. Today's post features the GH5 and a portrait shoot during the pandemic by my good buddy Charles Maring. But, the real stars of the video are Jessica Rose and the Leica 42.5 f/1.2 Nocticron lens. 

It's a short video, but pay attention to the way Charles is shooting - into the sun and taking full advantage of the narrow depth of field created through this amazing piece of glass. His quote above says it all, and you'll see in image after image how he takes full advantage of the creativity brought out by his vision, combined with the best characteristics of the lens.

"I'll often point this lens into the sun, because with its f1.2 aperture it gives a really soft elegant glow, and roll-off to the highlights."

Charles and Jennifer Maring need to be on your radar. Click on any of the portraits in this post to visit their website, "Together in Style." You'll never be disappointed in the content they share.  And stay tuned - they're about to make an amazing change in their lives, and all of us have been invited to share a front-row seat to their new adventures!

Take the time to get to know the LUMIX Ambassador team too. This group is one of the most diverse and creative teams in photo, and all the ambassadors should be on your radar as well. Looking for more great content? Check out the LUMIX Photographers Facebook page - there are always great conversations and images being shared by LUMIX artists from around the world.

by Skip Cohen

William Innes and I have been friends for many years, thanks to meeting through Panasonic. He's a LUMIX Ambassador, and right now, there are a lot of us living vicariously through his travels. A couple of months ago, William and his wife Cora hit the road on a two-year tour of the US and Canada. 

He's been posting to his Facebook page regularly, and virtually everything he shares is captured with a member of the LUMIX family of cameras. While the professional community knows the quality in the LUMIX interchangeable lens line, we often forget the smaller cameras.

The three photographs in this post were captured with the LUMIX LX100 II. You can click on the thumbnail banner below for more information about this remarkable camera. 

William shared these images in late July when they were in Oregon. These images are from Shore Acres State Park on the Oregon coast (near Coos Bay). The gardens are incredible - click on any image to enlarge it in the SCU Lightbox. Keep in mind these are screenshots from his Facebook post, and they're still sharp.

Check out the LUMIX Ambassador team. This group is one of the most diverse and creative teams in photo, and all the ambassadors should be on your radar. Check out the LUMIX Photographers Facebook page too - there are always great conversations and images being shared.

by Skip Cohen
 
Paul Mango is a LUMIX Ambassador and posted the image above on his Facebook page and Instagram a few weeks ago. Besides loving the shot, it hit me how many times I've done just what Paul did - take a long look in the rearview mirror.

While we're all looking forward and impatiently waiting for things to improve faster with the pandemic, our past photographs offer a soothing return to normalcy. It's those archived images of places we've visited, something we've photographed, and friends we've shared time with that help, so many of us stay focused. With this image, Paul wrote: "Missing our National Parks this Summer - New Moon over Balanced Rock in Arches National Park last Spring."

Just over a year ago, my wife and I decided it was time to see another part of the country that was new for both of us. We spent ten days in New Mexico, starting in Albuquerque, then Santa Fe and Taos. I brought a full backpack of camera gear but wound up using the LUMIX G-9 exclusively with the LUMIX 14-140mm lens. The combination gave me everything I needed, and the image quality was remarkable!

Paul captured the image with a LUMIX G-9 and a Rokinon 12mm F2.0 lens. Exposure triad was: ISO 2500, F2.0, 25 second exposure using the 2 second self timer to eliminate camera shake.

Click on any thumbnail below for more information about this incredible camera!